Australia swiftly finished off proceedings on day four of the third Ashes Test against England at Perth, dismissing the tourists for 123 in their second innings to complete a comprehensive 267-run victory.

England resumed on 81 for five and were unable to mount anything of a fightback and Australia's victory keeps the series and the battle for the Ashes alive as the two sides head to Melbourne on Boxing Day with the series level at 1-1.

Australlia needed just ten overs to complete the job on the morning of the fourth day with Ryan Harris taking six for 37 and man-of-the-match Mitchell Johnson three for 44.

First to depart was James Anderson, bowled by Harris for three and any hopes England had vanished when Ian Bell (16) and Matthew Prior (10) were dismissed in quick succession by the same bowler, Bell trapped in front and Prior caught by Michael Hussey.

Johnson, who returned figures of six for 38 in the first innings, then bowled Graeme Swann for nine and the match was ended when Harris had Steven Finn caught by Steve Smith for two.

England had started the Test strongly, winning the toss and bowling Australia out for 268. However, on day two, they could only manage 187 in reply and Australia then began to build their substantial lead.

Australia subsequently also , bowled out for 309, setting England 391 to win and then removing the top order before stumps.

Going into the match, England led the five-match series 1-0 following a draw in Brisbane and an innings win in Adelaide.